The Performance Based Navigation (PBN) related amendment to the Aircrew Regulation was published with Regulation (EU) 2016/539 and entered into force on 7 April 2016. Since this date a PBN extension can be provided to an IR holder who fulfils the requirement.
Since 7 April 2016 an IR course including PBN privileges can be approved to an ATO provided that the course complies with the requirements specified in Regulation (EU) 2016/539 and the associated AMCs.
Performance Based Navigation (PBN) enables aircraft to fly more directly from departure to arrival by using satellite signals. Closely spaced parallel routes and approaches become possible, and aircraft can descend to lower minimum heights over high terrain.
PBN uses data from satellites together with on board equipment for navigation procedures which allow for an optimised routing that is more precise and accurate (yielding shorter routes together with cost efficiency benefits that go along with the shorter routes) than what may be obtained using standard avionics and ground-based navigation aids.
PBN receives its name from the fact that the type of routes and procedures which are flown by the aircraft are dependent upon a combination of the performance level of equipment together with required pilot training.
Typical Installation
A PBN installation comprises Area Navigation (RNAV) and Required Navigation Performance (RNP).
RNAV permits aircraft to fly any desired flight path within the coverage of ground- or space-based navigation aids, within the limits of aircraft avionics, or with a combination of these.
RNP is a more advanced form of RNAV that includes an on board performance monitoring and alerting capability.
EASA PBN Methodology
The Agency modernised the regulatory approach towards operations using performance-based navigation (PBN) specifications. This system allows for a safer, more flexible and environmentally friendly way of navigating the skies.
Whereas currently a specific operational approval is required for almost all PBN operations, the new regulatory approach puts emphasis on pilot training and checking and on proportionate PBN-related operating procedures.
As a consequence, specific operational approvals are only required for some type of approaches, such as for example approaches with curved flight paths in the final approach, as well as specific helicopter operations.
This new regulatory approach is expected to increase safety and to significantly reduce administrative resource needs for air operators and national aviation authorities.
The increase in safety results in particular through:
Mandatory PBN-related training in theoretical knowledge and practical skills;
Inclusion of PBN operations to the regular mandatory proficiency checks; and
New and revised operating requirements.
Until the 25 August 2018 there will be courses with and without PBN privileges. After this date all training will comply with the requirements for IR courses including PBN privileges.
Consequently the competent authority will have two different examination papers that will be delivered depending on the course the student has undertaken.
After the 25 August 2020 all training, examination, testing and checking has to be performed in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/539 and consequently all instrument ratings have to include PBN privileges.
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